THE PIANO SPOKE

A recital by Dora de Marinis,reviewed by GUSTAV SCHILLER

On her return visit to the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe concerts at London's Regent Hall [6 March 2009], the distinguished Argentine pianist Dora de Marinis offered us new exceptional interpretations of two glorious Sonatas by Beethoven: Op 26 in A flat and the always welcome Sonata in F minor Op 57, known as 'Appassionata'.

These were readings of a mature artist, combining a natural gift for the music and style of the Genius of Bonn with years of experience and analysis.

It is difficult for me to say which of the Sonatas -- or movements -- I preferred, when all of them, be it the colours of the Variations or the gravity of the Funeral March in Op 26 or the passion and wisdom in Op 57 were delivered with such authority and inner conviction. I can truly say 'the piano spoke'.

We can only look forward to Dora de Marinis' next visit to the United Kingdom.